Over 20 regulated firms licensed by the FSRA conduct activities involving Virtual Assets or Fiat-Referenced Tokens.

Abu Dhabi, UAE: The Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) of ADGM presented a series of significant enhancements to its digital asset regulatory framework at the ninth edition of Fintech Abu Dhabi during Abu Dhabi Finance Week (ADFW). The announced updates reinforce ADGM’s position as a global leader in digital asset regulation and innovation.

Since 2018, ADGM has been at the forefront of digital asset regulation, one of the first jurisdictions globally to introduce a comprehensive and tailored framework for Virtual Assets (VAs). Today, ADGM’s ecosystem includes over 20 regulated firms licensed to conduct activities involving VAs or Fiat-Referenced Tokens (FRTs), including broker-dealers, custodians, exchanges, asset managers, and FRT issuers.

Following extensive industry engagement, the FSRA implemented changes to its VA framework to refine the process for accepting VAs as Accepted Virtual Assets (AVAs) in ADGM. Other key changes included:

  • adjustments to the capital requirements and fees for VA firms;
  • introduction of a specific product intervention power for VAs; and
  • expanded investment scope for Venture Capital Funds.

These updates mark a significant milestone in the evolution of the FSRA’s digital assets framework.

Recognising the growing importance of staking activities to the digital assets ecosystem, in September 2025, the FSRA published a proposed regulatory framework for VA staking, including outlining which categories of Authorised Persons would be permitted to carry on staking activities using their Clients’ VAs. Feedback to this consultation paper is currently under review. 

Building on its December 2024 framework for FRT issuance, the FSRA finalised amendments in October 2025 that detail its approach to accepting FRTs for use in ADGM. Effective 1 January 2026, these rules expand the scope of Regulated Activities that may be carried on using FRTs and address emerging FRT business models, while applying risk-based and proportionate requirements for Authorised Persons.

Emmanuel Givanakis, CEO of the FSRA of ADGM, said, “The FSRA continues to enhance its digital asset regulatory framework to remain forward-looking and responsive to the next wave of financial innovation, including tokenisation, DeFi and AI-driven market participation. Our approach balances innovation with strong governance, risk-based supervision, and alignment with global standards. We are committed to enabling digital asset firms to scale within a well-regulated international financial centre that prioritises transparency, resilience, and long-term stability. "

To view the full agenda of ADFW 2025, click HERE.

About ADGM

ADGM is the leading international financial centre (IFC) based in Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates. It is one of the world’s largest financial districts by size and is the largest IFC in the Middle East and Africa by the number of active licences.

ADGM is also one of a handful of jurisdictions globally and the only one regionally to directly apply the trusted legal system of English Common Law.

Governing both Al Maryah and Al Reem Islands, which are collectively designated as Abu Dhabi’s financial free zone, ADGM connects the economies of the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia (MEASA) region with global markets. Its progressive and inclusive ecosystem empowers financial and non-financial institutions to thrive, supporting innovation, sustainable growth, and long-term economic resilience.

Through its continued growth and cross-border partnerships, ADGM is strengthening Abu Dhabi’s position as the ‘Capital of Capital’ and a leading global hub for finance, investment, and enterprise.

For more details on ADGM, please visit www.adgm.com or follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram: @ADGM X: @adglobalmarket

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